Decade of molecular targeted therapy: abdominal manifestations of drug toxicities--what radiologists should know

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Molecular targeted agents have transformed cancer therapy by targeting specific tumor pathways.
• Radiologists primarily assess treatment response, potentially overlooking drug-induced toxicities.
• Abdominal solid organ toxicities from these novel agents require specific radiologic recognition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To educate radiologists on recognizing molecular targeted agent complications in abdominal solid organs.
• To facilitate early detection and intervention for drug toxicities.
• To reduce patient morbidity and mortality associated with cancer therapies.

Main Methods:

• Review of radiologic findings associated with molecular targeted agent toxicity.
• Correlation of imaging findings with clinical presentation and pathology.
• Emphasis on common abdominal organ systems affected by targeted therapies.

Main Results:

• Identified key imaging features of hepatitis, cholecystitis, and pancreatitis.
• Highlighted patterns of fluid retention and infection related to targeted agents.
• Demonstrated the importance of differentiating treatment response from drug toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Early radiologic diagnosis of abdominal toxicities is critical.
• Recognizing complications like hepatitis, cholecystitis, and pancreatitis can prevent severe outcomes.
• Prompt intervention may avoid surgery and reduce patient mortality.